Neymar again left out of PSG squad with pain in thigh

Unai Emery says he’s ‘clear’ in deciding who will take penalties for PSG, but won’t disclose whether it’s Edinson Cavani or Neymar.

PARIS — Neymar will miss Paris Saint-Germain’s trip to Lyon in Ligue 1 on Sunday after a thigh problem prevented coach Unai Emery from naming him in the 18-man squad for the clash at Groupama Stadium.

However, the French capital outfit welcome Javier Pastore back for the first time since his late return from South America over the winter break.

According to a statement on PSG’s Twitter account, the reason for Neymar’s absence in Lyon is pain in his right thigh, which comes after treatment for costal cartilage pain also ruled him out of the 1-0 win away at Nantes last weekend.

The Brazil international played against Dijon between Nantes and Lyon, scoring four goals and assisting two more but the Ligue 1 leaders are taking no chances with a chance to stretch their lead at the summit to 12 points this weekend.

Neymar will not be able to face Lyon on Sunday.

Emery also remains without Thiago Motta, who is yet to return to training after picking up an injury away at Rennes earlier this month and is working his way back.

Lucas Moura has been left out once again, amid speculation that he has played his last game with PSG fuelled by comments made by him after the Nantes win.

Sources close to the player told ESPN FC on Saturday that Arsenal are considering a move for the 25-year-old.

Hatem Ben Arfa has been ruled out with a left leg injury but almost certainly would have been left out anyway as sporting director Antero Henrique tries to move him on before the end of the month.

Youth academy products Sebastien Cibois and Alec Georgen did not make the cut and will train instead.

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